Assessing the Impact of Information and Communication Technologies on Human Development: A Regional Analysis for Africa

Abstract

AbstractThis study examines the socio-economic effects of information and communication technologies (ICT) in Africa by region. Analysis-based data from countries in five regions of Africa show that the contribution of ICTs to socio-economic indicators varies according to the type of ICT and the region where these technologies are used. For example, Internet usage is prominent in the Middle, East, and North Africa, while telecommunication technologies are at the forefront in South, East, North, and West Africa. The study, therefore, contributes to the formation of policies according to the regional dynamics of the continent. Besides, this study argues that, contrary to the study performed by Njoh (2018) for the African continent, IC technologies can be effective on HDI with different types of ICT according to the regional dynamics of the continent. The result of this study is that using ICT alone does not adequately support development. Therefore, IC technologies should also be used in sectors such as agriculture, health, and education. Digital transformation in the agriculture sector can be a significant factor in solving the food problem facing the continent. Mobile phones and Internet use in the agricultural field can enable farmers to learn about new agricultural techniques and to use agricultural areas more efficiently. In healthcare, mobile phones and the Internet can enable these services to reach even remote regions of the continent. In education, the integration of IC technologies – especially the Internet and computers – can support human capital by ensuring that education reaches all levels of society equally and quickly. The use of IC technologies in these three sectors is the most effective way for Africa to achieve its sustainable development goals.KeywordsInformation and communication technologiesHuman developmentRegional analysis